SUMMARY
A clash against 17th-placed Gold Coast presents a real opportunity for Melbourne. The Demons are jostling with a raft of teams for the final places in the top eight and a big win over the struggling SUNS would prove to be a major fillip for Simon Goodwin's side. However, the Demons cannot get caught up in thinking about chalking up potential percentage-boosting wins. Melbourne needs to concentrate on the present and make sure it gives itself every chance to win its four remaining matches against the SUNS, Sydney, West Coast and Greater Western Sydney. Melbourne was challenged against Adelaide and responded positively with youngsters Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver standing up when it counted. For the SUNS, finishing off a tough season in a positive way will be their major focus.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Sunday, August 5, 3.20pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE MEETINGS
R8, 2018, Melbourne 21.20 (146) d Gold Coast Suns 11.11 (77) at the Gabba
R10, 2017, Melbourne 18.14 (122) d Gold Coast Suns 13.9 (87) at TIO Traeger Park
R19, 2016, Melbourne 9.12 (66) d Gold Coast Suns 9.10 (64) at the MCG
R7, 2016, Melbourne 24.16 (160) d Gold Coast Suns 14.3 (87) at Metricon Stadium
R1, 2015, Melbourne 17.13 (115) d Gold Coast Suns 13.11 (89) at the MCG
TALKING POINTS
1. Melbourne led by 22 points at half-time earlier this season against Gold Coast, before it kicked 13 second-half goals to six. Tom McDonald starred with 17 disposals and five goals.
2. This will be a contest between the highest- and lowest-scoring sides this season. Melbourne is ranked No.1 in the AFL, kicking 103 points per game compared to the SUNS' 60.
3. Melbourne has dominated Gold Coast recently, winning the past five contests including two by more than 60 points. The SUNS' last win against the Demons occurred in round five, 2014, by eight points at the MCG.
4. The Demons are ranked first for inside 50s and marks inside 50. Gold Coast is 17th for inside 50s and last for marks inside 50.
5. Gold Coast is one of the best tackling sides this season, ranked second (averaging 71.6 per game) in the AFL. Melbourne is not far behind, in third, averaging 70.5.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR…
Rory Thompson will have his hands full against a forward line consisting of Jesse Hogan and Tom McDonald. The defender has had a solid season but faces a significant challenge against the No.1 scoring team in the competition.
